About

my story

Hi, I’m Ana — neuroscientist, nutrition & lifestyle coach, and mom.

My fascination with the brain started long ago — I’ve always been curious about how our brain works and its incredible influence on who we are. This passion led me to pursue a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, where I explored the complexities of brain function in depth.

After experiencing my own health challenges, I became increasingly interested in how lifestyle and nutrition impact not only our physical health but also our brain. I began studying nutrition independently, and the more I learned, the clearer it became:

what we eat and how we live influence mood, cravings, energy, and long-term well-being in profound ways.

To deepen my knowledge, I completed a CAS in Nutrition at ETH Zürich, and later became a certified Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach.

When my daughter was born, everything became even more personal. I grew fascinated with how nutrition shapes a child’s brain development — and also how our daily habits as mothers ripple into the health of future generations. I truly believe that the choices we model and the environment we create shape our children far more than any single meal ever could.

Through Brain Choices, I combine my expertise in neuroscience, nutrition & lifestyle, literature research, and coaching to help women — especially mothers — in understanding the biology behind cravings, mood, stress, and sustainable weight.

My mission is to help you feel grounded, steady, and in control of your body again — without restriction, guilt, or overwhelm.

With more than 20 scientific publications and a lifelong commitment to learning, I’m here to offer science-based, compassionate guidance that actually fits real life. Together, we can build sustainable habits that nourish both you and your family.

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If you are ready to restore your Brain-Body Balance, I invite you to download my free guide:

mockup food swaps (2)

Calm Your Cravings — Starting Today

A gentle, science-based starting point toward brain–body balance.
Learn simple swaps and strategies that help you feel more in control — without restriction or overwhelm.

About My Background

  • Ph.D. in Neuroscience (University of Geneva, Switzerland)
  • CAS in Nutrition for Disease Prevention and Health (ETH Zürich)
  • Certified Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach (Institute of Health Science, Ireland)
  • CAS in Bioengineering (MIT–Portugal Program)
  • BSc + MSc in Biomedical Engineering (University of Lisbon, Portugal)
  • 20+ peer-reviewed scientific publications
  • 15+ years researching the brain, nutrition, and lifestyle

about brain choices

What Is Brain Choices?

I created Brain Choices to bring neuroscience and nutrition together into a practical, compassionate approach for women and mothers. I help you understand the biology behind cravings, energy, mood, and sustainable weight — so you can feel in control of your body again without restriction or overwhelm

Mission, Vision, Values

Mission

To empower women and moms with neuroscience-based knowledge and practical tools that support their brain, body, and long-term well-being.

Vision

A world where women feel grounded, resilient, and in control — and where healthier choices ripple into future generations.

Values

Science-driven

Grounded in neuroscience, nutrition & lifestyle research — translated into simple, practical steps you can use in daily life.

Nourishment, Not Restriction

Our body thrives when it’s supported, not punished. My approach focuses on adding nourishing foods and habits, not taking things away.

Simplicity & Ease

Realistic guidance for real life.
Healthy change should feel doable. I give you small, realistic strategies that fit into the busy rhythm of motherhood and everyday life.

Sustainable Habits for you and your family

The choices we make ripple into our children’s health and development. I help you build simple, sustainable habits that nourish both you and your family long-term.